Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Body contact refers to physical touch or closeness between two individuals. It's considered essential in forming strong emotional bonds and attachments.
Related terms
Tactile Sensation: The sense of touch which plays a significant role in human communication, emotion regulation and overall health.
Skin-to-Skin Contact (Kangaroo Care): A method of caring for newborns where babies are held skin-to-skin with a parent for as much time as possible each day; this has been shown to improve physiological regulation in premature infants.
Haptic Communication: Non-verbal communication involving touch.